Circumcision is quite ancient in origin but occupies an important position in American culture. When and why circumcision was started in America offers a clue to the cultural, medical, and social implications associated with it. This paper presents the historical context of when circumcision started, the reasons its adoption was realized, and how it has evolved over the years. The key question at issue is: “When did circumcision start in America?” Looking into a few questions, let’s give ourselves an overview of how this practice journeyed through American society.
Historical Beginnings of Circumcision in America
Circumcision practices in America date back to the late 19th century. It is during this period that the medical fraternity began to argue for circumcision based on purported health benefits associated with the practice. Victorian era beliefs were a chief determinant through which this advocacy got its origins, especially by associating circumcision with improved hygiene and prevention against some diseases.
Medical journals and popular press of the time pitched circumcision as a strategy for preventing infections and other diseases. It was also during this time period that the anti-masturbation movement picked up steam, and circumcision was introduced as a preventative measure. Medical giants of the day, such as Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, contributed to popularizing circumcision.
The entry of some cultural and religious practices among Jewish and Muslim immigrants also influenced the adoption of circumcision in America. However, the religious driving forces were very minimal compared to the medical and social factors that favored its wide acceptance. By the early 20th century, circumcision was already a routine practice in American hospitals.
A fourth contributing factor to the dissemination of circumcision was, therefore, the medicalization of childbirth and the rise of hospital births. In this scenario, as hospitals became the modern site for giving birth, circumcision was often executed shortly after birth, becoming a sort of standard procedure for newborn boys.
Medical and Social Drivers
The Role of Medical Advocacy
Circumcision practice flourished in America due to medical advocacy. Health professionals during the late 19th and early 20th centuries claimed to have proof that circumcision prevented a variety of diseases, which included urinary infections, penile cancer, sexually transmitted infections, and so on. Although most of such claims were vigorously disputed by the later decades, during that time, they held a high degree of credibility, due to which the practice spread desperately.
Cultural Influences
Cultural factors also played a significant part in the widespread acceptance of circumcision. Circumcision symbolized modernity, cleanliness, and hygiene, which coupled well with society’s strong interest in hygiene and health during that era. The fact that highly respected figures and institutions advocated circumcision gave face value to the practice.
The Anti-Masturbation Movement
The anti-masturbation movement had a great effect on popularizing circumcision. Noted proponents, like Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, insisted that circumcision would end masturbation, which was held, at the time, to lead to a great number of physical and mental ailments. This is a belief that has since been discredited but had wide acceptance during the era of Victorianism.
Institutionalization in Hospitals
The shift to hospital births in the early 20th century helped institutionalize circumcision. That is, as hospitals codified childbirth, circumcision as a regular procedure for newborn boys became institutionalized. This institutional support further cemented the practice in American society.
Contemporary Arguments and Debates
Circumcision in the contemporary period is not only very common but also surrounded by controversy. At a rather broad level, the medical community is divided on questions concerning the necessity and benefits associated with routine circumcisions of newborns. On the affirmative side of arguments about circumcision, one would find individuals who believe that the risk of a number of infections or diseases is lessened. Others, however, point out the ethical concerns and possible risks associated with the procedure.
While it allows that some benefits accrue from circumcision, the American Academy of Pediatrics stops short of recommending universal circumcision. Rather, it suggests leaving the decision to the parents, considering such medical, social, and ethical factors.
Public opinion is also divided on the issue of circumcision. Some parents circumcise their sons for cultural or religious reasons, while others reject the practice because it entails the amputation of a healthy organ, thus violating a boy’s right to bodily integrity. Both pro- and anti-circumcision advocacy groups present compelling arguments on the subject, further fanning this debate.
Ethical concerns also feature in the debate on circumcision. Opponents argue that circumcised, non-consenting infants violate their autonomy over bodily integrity and expose them to unnecessary agony apart from complications. According to proponents, however, the procedure, if performed well, carries minimal risk and some health benefits.
The Future of Circumcision in America
Changes in Past and Present Medical Guidelines: The medical guidelines are likely to change when new research results are published. Several studies are currently underway in an attempt to yield information that is clearer with respect to the long-term health effects of circumcision and which could perhaps affect medical guidance and future practice.
Cultural Shifts: Other factors that will interact are cultural shifts in the future. Should societal attitudes to issues like bodily autonomy and medical ethics change, circumcision rates might go up or down. Parents can be better placed to make informed decisions by raising awareness and education on the benefits versus risks of the procedure.
Potential Legal and Policy Changes: Another driver could be legal and policy changes. There have been efforts to introduce legislation that restricts non-consensual circumcision in some jurisdictions, which reflects a changing ethical understanding of the practice. These legal battles reflect the wider social discussion regarding the complex interplay of culture and individual rights.
Conclusion
The history of circumcision in America is long and eventful, from its early adoption since the late 19th century through to the present day, where it has evolved into quite a debated medical practice. It will be pertinent to understand when circumcision started in America with respect to its cultural, medical, and social dimensions in the country. With changing societal attitudes and updating medical guidelines, so does the future regarding circumcision in America.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When was circumcision started in America?
A. Circumcision became popular in America during the late 19th century. It became fashionable through medical promotion and cultural beliefs about hygiene and health.
Q. What were the initial reasons for the practice of circumcision in America?
A. Perceived health benefits, prevention of infections, and curbing masturbation—such stuff as influenced Victorian-era beliefs—were given.
Q. How has the practice of circumcision in America changed?
Circumcision evolved from a medical recommendation to a routine hospital procedure, peaking in the mid-20th century and facing growing debates in recent decades.
